Ben’s Story: What Happens When Students “Just Get Involved”

For high school student Ben Franke, conservative values aren’t just something to talk about, they’re something to act on.

American Majority brought our Youth Grassroots Training to Waterloo, Iowa; which was home of several contentious races during the 2014 election cycle. Several of the attendees went on to volunteer during the homestretch of the election. Ben Franke was one of those students who took action during those final crucial days.

Ben is a 17-year-old high school student from Janesville, Iowa. During the Waterloo training, Ben stood out immediately as being sharp and attentive. He quickly answered several question during this interactive training. Shortly after the training, Ben began going door-to-door advocating his point of view for the election.

Ben’s conservative values began early in his life. “I had parents whose conservative principles wore off on me, and I deeply admired people like the founding fathers.” he said. “Things like life liberty and the pursuit of happiness stuck out to me – It’s part of my wiring.”

From there, Ben’s interests grew and by filtering his observations through his conservative worldview, he developed and deepened his own politics. His “love of country” coupled with what he calls an “absence of values” in government was enough to motivate Ben to action.

Reflecting positively on his time campaigning, Ben stated, “The experience I got campaigning was really more valuable than any lesson.” He is interested in building a “relationship” with his community and understanding the point of view of others.

Ben was 16 during the election. When asked if he believes his age had an impact on his effectiveness, he stated, “I suppose on one hand I feel just because I’m young I can be overlooked. On the other hand, I might have been heard more because I’m a young guy trying to secure a future I believe in.”

Ben doubles down on his belief that his future is in his own hands. “History is shaped by individuals, and what we do today is shaping tomorrow. So, if you believe in something you ought to be able to fight for it,” he said.

When asked if he had any practical advice for other young people he said, “Find a mentor, find a role model – someone who can teach you. Just volunteer, be involved.”

That’s sound advice for all of us. Keep learning and just get involved. American Majority-trainee Ben Franke of Iowa putting his words into action!